IceHogs News

In partnership with the Chicago Blackhawks, Comcast SportsNet will be airing tonight’s “2009 Blackhawk Cup” state championship featuring one of the best rivalries in all of Illinois high school sports -- New Trier vs. Loyola -- on Thursday, March 19 at 7:00 PM.

Calling the action will be play-by-play announcer Jim Smith from the Amateur Hockey Association of Illinois and J.J. O’Connor, the former Loyola Academy standout who suffered a devastating injury during a game in October of 1995, will handle color analysis. O’Connor, whose injury confined him to a wheelchair, is an outgoing 21-year-old who routinely makes motivational speeches and is preparing for a business career.

New Trier (45-7-3) has reached the “Blackhawk Cup” state final in eight of the last 12 seasons, last winning it in 2005. Loyola (24-19-9) lost to Glenbrook South three years ago, last winning their state title in 1996.

Viewers are encouraged to tune to Comcast SportsNet’s SportsNite at 10:00 PM, 10:30 PM and 12 midnight for highlights from tonight’s “Blackhawk Cup” action from the United Center, including the girls state championship, also featuring New Trier vs. Loyola.